Pinball enthusiasts and Dungeons & Dragons aficionados might just find their paradise in this stunning, albeit pricey, new pinball machine.
My passion for pinball machines runs deep. They’re nostalgic relics from a past era, yet they’ve somehow managed to endure, growing more elaborate with time. I’d love nothing more than to have one of these beauties in my own home—imagine not having to constantly shell out quarters. The catch? Owning one requires a hefty investment, especially if we’re talking about the latest official Dungeons & Dragons pinball machine that’s just been unveiled. Crafted by Stern Pinball, renowned as the world’s leading pinball manufacturer, it’s a machine that definitely commands attention.
This masterpiece is a result of a collaboration with Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast, serving to commemorate the tabletop role-playing game’s 50th anniversary. It invites players into the rich tapestry of the forgotten realms, battling iconic foes like a menacing red dragon, a slithering gelatinous cube, and the sinister mimic, alongside figures such as the lich Sammaster, beholder Xanathar, and a formidable owlbear. Adventurers will journey through locales including Faerûn’s Arabel and Westgate. The game even features voices from notable D&D personalities such as Critical Role’s Matthew Mercer, Laura Bailey, and Marisha Ray, along with Luke Gygax, son of the legendary Gary Gygax, co-creator of D&D.
The unexpected star of the voice lineup? Gerard Way of My Chemical Romance fame. While the reason for his involvement remains a mystery, it’s certainly a quirky tidbit for any owner to share. But before you get too excited, know this: affording one of these machines is a whole other quest.
The Pro version starts at a steep $7,000. Opting for the Premium model raises that figure to $9,700. And if you’re eyeing the Limited Edition, prepare your coin purse—only 740 of these will be available, each fetching an astonishing $13,000. As amazing as this pinball machine looks, I think this might be a fantasy I’ll leave unexplored.
